The Doolin based ferry to the Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher, was awarded Best Irish Boat Tour Operator 2023 at the prestigious Nautical Tourism Awards!

Being crowned ‘Best Irish Boat Tour Operator’ tops off a year of success, as Doolin Ferry already secured two other awards this season: ‘Best Tourism Experience in Clare 2023‘ accolade at the Clare Business Excellence Awards run by Ennis Chamber and a Silver Award for ‘Transport & Logistics Family Business of the Year 2023′ at the National Family Business Awards.

The string of recognitions is a testament to Doolin Ferry’s unwavering commitment to excellence, outstanding service, and dedication to providing unparalleled experiences for its passengers.

The Nautical Tourism Awards, run by LUXlife Magazine, celebrate excellence in the maritime industry and rigorously evaluate contenders on the basis of merit and quality. Accordingly, awardees are analysed and assessed objectively by the LUXlife research team.

Speaking about the award, Liam O’Brien, owner of Doolin Ferry said, “Receiving the title of ‘Best Irish Boat Tour Operator‘ is not just an award; it is a recognition of our team’s hard work, dedication, and our ongoing commitment to providing the best possible experiences for our passengers. We are immensely proud of this accomplishment, and it motivates us to continually strive for excellence in all that we do.”

About Doolin Ferry

Doolin Ferry provides a seasonal passenger ferry service from Doolin to the enchanting Aran Islands along with scenic voyages along the Cliffs of Moher including private Seafari custom boat tours. This latest award underscores the company’s ability to combine adventure with a commitment to customer care, making each boat trip a memorable and enjoyable experience.

As the company gears up for the upcoming season, this accolade serves as both a celebration of past accomplishments and an inspiration to continue setting the standard for exceptional boat tours in Ireland.

Plan ahead and book your tickets with Doolin Ferry Co for 2024 as seats during peak periods fill fast. We look forward to seeing you on board!

The post Award Winning Ferry to Aran Islands appeared first on Doolin Ferry.

We are thrilled to announce that Doolin Ferry was crowned the ‘Best Tourism Experience in Clare‘ at the Clare Business Excellence Awards 2023.

Run by Ennis Chamber, the awards celebrate and recognise the achievements of businesses from all corners of the county. Winners are selected by a panel of professional independent adjudicators who judge a written submission and conduct a company audit and site visit to experience first-hand the service provided.

In winning the award, Doolin Ferry shows its commitment to excellence across all areas of the business, demonstrates sustainable and environmentally sound practices, community support and engaging marketing efforts about its tourism service.

This is a momentous achievement for Doolin Ferry, a second-generation family business, which offers a seasonal passenger ferry service to the Aran Islands and cruises beneath the Cliffs of Moher. The company, founded in 1970, boasts a fleet of state-of-the-art boats and a range of tour options and prides itself on its consistently high customer satisfaction ratings.

Owner Liam O’Brien explained what it means to win this award:
“As a family business, deeply rooted in Co.Clare, winning this award is particularly meaningful. It’s a testament to the authenticity of our experiences and the genuine connection we have with our community.

This recognition fuels our passion to continue providing an exceptional tourism experience, connecting people to the beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage of the west coast of Clare”.

Silver Award for Transport & Logistics Family Business of the Year – Family Business Awards 2023

But that’s not all – the accolades keep rolling in!

Doolin Ferry was honoured with the Silver award for ‘Transport & Logistics Family Business of the Year’ at the Family Business Awards 2023.

The awards recognise and celebrate the vital role that family-run businesses play in the economic and social fabric of Ireland.

The winners were announced at a luncheon hosted by Matt Cooper on Friday, 3rd of November in the Mansion House.

This recognition highlights not only the excellent tourism service we provide but also the deep sense of family values that fuels our success.

Being recognised in the family business category underscores the collaborative effort and dedication of the entire Doolin Ferry team.

From the helm to the deck and from online to onsite customer interactions, every member of the Doolin Ferry family plays a vital role in ensuring smooth, safe, and unforgettable journeys for our passengers.

Cruise Company of the Year 2022 Ireland

Boat Tour of the Year 2021 Ireland

Doolin Ferry Company are delighted to announce that we have won not one, but two, Travel & Tourism awards this year. ‘Boat Tour of the Year’ 2021 in Ireland and ‘Boat Tour of the Year’ 2021 for the West of Ireland. We are so thrilled to receive these fantastic achievements.

Here is a brief summary of what the judges have to say:

• Great range of tour options including combination trips that allow visitors to get the most out of a trip to County Clare.
• Excellent reviews online that praise the overall cruise experience, staff, conditions.
• Easy to use and informative site. The advance booking page is straightforward to navigate and offers added convenience.

Over 50 years in business

Though it was a memorable year for many reasons, 2020 was our 50th anniversary year in business operating boats from Doolin to the Aran Islands. Bill O’Brien founded the original ferry service in 1970. It’s been quite a journey from his first single currach to a first class fast ferry fleet. We are so proud of the achievements and advancements that have been made at Doolin Harbour.

We have worked tirelessly year in and year out to not only build a top class modern ferry fleet, but to also achieve customer service excellence. Everything we have achieved has been done with our customers at heart. So next time you’re in Doolin be sure to stop in to us for a chat. Ask about our sailings times from Doolin on the all new Aran Islands Express ferry. The Aran Islands Express is the largest and most comfortable ferry in Doolin brand new in 2020. We have a variety of trips to choose from to Inis Oirr, Inis Meain, and Inis Mor.

Planning your trip

Please contact us any time and we would be delighted to help you plan your trip to Doolin, the Aran Islands, or a Cliffs of Moher Cruise. After all, we are the best ferry from Doolin!

Be sure to check out our Special Offers page for chances to win giveaways and early access to promotions, or return to our Homepage.

The post Best ferry from Doolin appeared first on Doolin Ferry.

We are back with Doolin Ferry’s second Aran Islands Christmas Gift available now in our new Doolin Ferry Shop. This year we teamed up with the Irish Chandler to provide you with a nostalgic Christmas gift from the Aran Islands. Enjoy a little piece of the Aran Islands no matter where you are in the world. Our new limited edition, candle range is now available. Lovingly created and handmade by a master craftswoman in Lisdoonvarna, Co. Clare. Just down the road from us in Doolin! Only the finest materials are used hand-making these exclusive candles. We are a green conscious company. The candles are made using only eco cotton wicks, premium plant-based fragrance oils and 100% soy wax. They are vegan friendly, cruelty free and burn clean. This makes them ideal to use in the home and office.

180ml jar

30-35 hour burn time

We launched our brand new service this year. Our “seafari experience”, the first of its kind in Doolin, offers guests the option of a thrilling seafari underneath the Cliffs of Moher or a completely customized day for private hire. A gift voucher for this fantastic experience would make an exciting gift for the adventurous. Your itinerary is endless. To book or inquiry please email edel@doolinferry.com.

How can I purchase an Aran Islands Christmas Gift?

It’s simple!

• Visit the Doolin Ferry Shop and click the Buy Now button.
  
• Adjust the quantity you would like.  
• PLEASE NOTE: Product price includes express tracked shipping.
• Fill in your shipping details and email.
• If you would not like your email to be added to our mailing list please contact sales@doolinferry.com

We will get your candle packaged & shipped and on it’s way!

Planning a trip to Doolin next year?

Why not pair it with a voucher too, the perfect Aran Islands Christmas bundle or gift voucher? You can find more inspiration in our latest blog post for ideas on planning your Trip to Doolin, our Aran Island Tourist Maps, and all our ferry ticket offers. If you would like to purchase a Christmas gift and voucher please email us directly to sales@doolinferry.com.
Make your purchase securely through Stripe. Shipping is worldwide. Limited stock is available therefore place your order now to avoid disappointment! Thank you for your continued support here at www.doolinferry.com. You can keep up with our Special offers or we have an interesting article about Life on the Aran Islands just in case you are ever considering it and missing them like us.

Merry Christmas!

From all at Doolin Ferry Co.

The post Aran Islands Christmas Gift appeared first on Doolin Ferry.

Wondering what you need to bring on your trip to the Aran Islands? With over 50 years experience in traveling to and from the Aran Islands, Doolin Ferry Co have this down to a tee!

As they say, there is no such thing as bad weather- just bad clothing! The success of any trip always lies in the preparation so here’s a list of tips that we have put together to ensure you have a lovely time on the Aran Islands or on a Cliffs of Moher Cruise with Doolin Ferry Co.

What to Bring to the Aran Islands

1. LAYERS! Irish weather is so changeable so expect 4 seasons in a day. A little backpack with a warm jumper and a waterproof jacket is always a good idea. Fingers crossed that you won’t need it but better to be prepared. A change of socks and a t-shirt for emergencies will see you through!
2. Comfortable footwear. Accommodation and things to see around the Aran Islands will most likely require some aspect of walking, cycling or hiking! Ensure that you’ve something warm and comfortable on your feet. You can check out more options on how to get around Inis Mor, how to get around Inis Oirr, and how to get around Inis Meain.
3. There’s lots of places to eat and drink on the islands so you won’t ever be stuck for refreshments. Check out our short Video of Where to eat and drink, and what to do on the Aran Islands. Pack a few snacks to keep you going too for emergencies!
4. ATM’S on the Aran Islands- unfortunately ATM’s are hard come by so make sure to bring cash with you.
5. Sun cream! Believe it or not the sun on the Aran Islands is strong (even on those cloudy days!) make sure to have some sun protection with you.
6. Booking a ferry to the Aran Islands- best way is to book online in advance. The summer months are particularly busy for trips to the Aran Islands and so it’s a good idea to pre-book your seat in advance to guarantee your preferred travel time. You’ll also save up to 30% by booking online at Doolin Ferry Co.

You may also be interested in checking our our Aran Island Maps, Doolin Ferry FAQS, or directions to Doolin Pier.

The post Aran Islands- What to bring? appeared first on Doolin Ferry.

Caisleán Uí Bhríain

When taking the ferry from Doolin to the Aran Islands one of the first things you will see upon approach is O’Brien’s Castle, on Inis Oírr (Inisheer).

The Castle is located on one of the highest points of the island and grandly overlooks the beach, pier, and ruins below. This castle is thought to have been built in 14th century making it one of the oldest ruins on the Aran Islands. It would pre-date the other ruins in surrounding areas of County Clare such as the Burren Tower Houses and other stone forts on the Aran Islands.

The post O’Brien’s Castle appeared first on Doolin Ferry.

The Famous Plassey Shipwreck

In 1960 on a dark stormy night a freighter was washed ashore on the Island of Inis Oirr. The Islanders quickly gathered to the wreck to rescue those on board and to salvage what they could from the battering sea. The ship carried many goods that were never before seen on the island, including biscuits, cookies, and even modern day toilets. Pieces, Wheels, Compasses, and various parts of the Ship were taken by many as souvenirs and reminders of the rare event.

Father Ted Fame

The post Plassey Shipwreck appeared first on Doolin Ferry.

New in 2018, The Doolin Ferry Co. with the O’Brien Family welcomes a fast ferry to the fleet, the ‘Doolin Express’!

We have officially put into operation our new fast ferry, the Doolin Express. Today is a very exciting day for our ferry service here in Doolin which has been in operation for more than 45 years, since 1970 see our History of Doolin Pier. The addition of the M.V. Doolin Express is a tremendous upgrade to our existing fleet and by far the most advanced addition to the ferry services in Doolin Harbour. Not only will it reduce the sailing times to the Aran Islands by half, it will also greatly add to best experience and comfort of our passengers as they set out on the Wild Atlantic Way.

Improving Services in Doolin

The recent development of the New Pier in 2015 by Clare County Council has been a tremendous boost for us in terms of our ability to grow our own service. From the time Bill pioneered his first boat trips to the Aran Islands in 1970, he has continuously sought to grow, create, and expand his unique idea that has left competitors catching up with and imitating his ambition every step of the way.  Bill O’Brien has seen various condition’s at Doolin Pier over the years, particularly when it comes to the facilities in Doolin. For those of you who have traveled to the Aran Islands or on the Cliffs of Moher ferry in recent years, you would have had a very different experience to those just 3 years before you.

The old pier in Doolin from which Bill started out his boat service from all those years ago is tidal. This meant that boat trips from Doolin to the Aran Islands were intermittent at best. Those of you who can remember not too long ago putting on a life jacket and hopping on board a smaller currach to ship you out to the ferry in low tide- you know what we’re talking about! There could not be a regular sailing time table for our passengers and so it was often a case of luck that you would happen to arrive at the right time. This ever-changing schedule is not something that would be greatly tolerated by today’s savvy traveler.

So with development of the New Pier in Doolin and the greater reliability of scheduling of our ferry service, this has allowed us to invest more in our own business. These changes have also contributed to the greater growth of the region in general. Not only just for The Aran Islands and the village of Doolin, Ireland, but the surrounding areas of County Clare. Accommodation providers, hoteliers, restaurants, and local shops have all been able to grow with these types of investments in our area. It is fantastic to see such positive changes and growth that Bill could not quite have imagined all those years ago.

Largest Ferry Capacity in Doolin

By increasing the capacity of a single ferry from 100 passengers to 200, we are also improving the efficiency of our service and working toward meeting our sustainability and environmental goals. The Doolin Ferry Co. has been a proud member of the Burren Ecotourism Network since 2014, see our Environmental Policy.

Since that time involvement in the network has been extremely beneficial in terms of educating ourselves on best practices and sustainability when operating in an area of such extreme beauty and in protected landscapes. We have learned that improving your sustainability is not only beneficial for your business, but also for your environment.

Electronic Stabilizing System

One of the major benefits of the Doolin Express besides it size and greater capacity is its state of the art electronic stabilizing system. The Atlantic Seas that battle with the world-famous Cliffs of Moher on a daily basis are also what we contend with. The Doolin Express will help passengers that are prone to motion sickness travel in greater comfort.

Proud Achievement

Bill and Liam O’Brien have been working tremendously hard in recent years to keep improving and growing their business in Doolin. It is no easy feat to navigate the process of acquiring a ferry and then seeing it through to operation. After years of hard work, time, and immense effort they have managed to take another step in growing their service and lifelong passion. We very much look forward to welcoming you on board and celebrating this special occasion with us! See our full Ferry Fleet here.

The post Doolin Express Ferry appeared first on Doolin Ferry.

The Aran Islands are certainly a wonderful place to visit during the Summer, but there are also many advantages to traveling to the islands during October. The ferry services finish at the end of October, as the seas start to get very wild in Doolin from the beginning of November. From the months of November to February no ferries operate at all from Doolin, so the last chance to visit is October.

The advantages of traveling in October are the following:

1. To save money: The Aran Island hotels and B&Bs generally increase their rates due to the busy summer periods, meeting the popular demand. Like everywhere else, off-peak season is cheaper, so therefore easier on the pocket! (Which means you can spend more money on nice activities such as walking-tours and cycles!). See more on Places to stay on Inis Mor.
2. To avoid the crowds: Around October you will find that there are less tourists and less events happening. Less crowds can mean more space, less busy restaurants and shops and more time to relax and embrace the surroundings. Less busy craft shops and museums can results in you spending more time reading and taking in the true culture of the island with more ease.
3. If you are into sport: Tourists can enjoy some real wave action in the wintertime. Popular sports such as surfing and wind-surfing attract eager tourists.
4. More time with the locals: The best way to learn about the true culture of a place is by chatting with the locals. If there are less people around, take advantage and pick their brains on the history, lifestyles and wildlife of the islands. Learn a couple of ‘focal as gaeilge’ (Irish words) and chat like a real local!
5. The weather: The west of Ireland can certainly get extreme weather conditions, so wrapping up is essential. However, there is nothing quite like hanging out in a cozy bar by an open fire while its cold outside. Find out more about What to Bring and the weather in Ireland in October.

For more great information on the best time to visit Ireland check out Lets Go Ireland!

Check out the Aran Island Ferry sailing times or Contact us for more information on sailing during October. Thank you for visiting www.doolinferry.com.

The post The advantages of travelling to the Islands during October appeared first on Doolin Ferry.

A life surrounded by fishing, farming, culture and nature. However, it may not be suited to everybody. We looked into rent, schools and services, to see how feasible that life really is.

Houses are available to rent on the Aran Islands at between €300 and €500 per month. The cost of living is very low. With an area solely dependent on tourism and the local industries we can see how the locals work hard to make a living. There are planes to Galway every day and the boat crosses every morning and evening which allow the inhabitants to work on mainland if they wish. The locals claim that life on the island is very rewarding, with a “culture all of its own” and a “close community”. “We have our own musical and sporting traditions and events, we even have our own feast days”, say locals.

Hidden Gems

“We live on a hidden treasure”, says one local. “I’ve lived the urban life and our standard of living is much higher here.” The school curriculum is broad and colorful and always grounded in the cultural heritage of this island. However there is a growing unease among the islanders. Some years there are as little as 5 students that enroll in the local primary school, which is a worrying thought that could result in losing a teacher.

Orlaith, from Dublin, a primary school teacher from Ballinteer moved to Inis Meain in 1996 to pursue her teaching career. Orlaith says “walking out the door of Inis Meain primary school is a pleasure in itself. Small-scale farming and fishing are the main industries here and these have made little impact on the landscape apart from the animals, the dry stone walls and the little currachs on the shoreline.” With only 170 people on the island you see the same faces and a real sense of community is among them.

Orlaith speaks of the services on the island which include a 24-hour public health nurse and doctor three days a week, broadband, one primary and one secondary school.

Essay from a student

This is an essay recently written by a student attending school on the Aran Islands for one year. Their response to this question prompt below will give you a wee heart-warming insight into what school life can be like on the Aran Islands in the eyes of a student. Enjoy!

‘Last August I was fortunate enough to be accepted for a scholarship to the Aran Islands and it is home to fewer than one hundred people for most of the year, this tiny island made an immediate impression on me that can only be described as positive, have created experiences and learned valuable lessons I will never forget.

This small Island off the west coast of Ireland and its people were welcoming from day one, I was embraced with open arms and saw clearly that my new host family and teachers were going to do everything possible to give me the gift of enriching my Irish, create a positive learning experience and a new understanding of Irish culture and history, this open embrace showed me how determined and passionate these people are to pass on our ancient language as well as the traditional culture of Ireland and the Aran islands, this was a positive experience as it really opened my eyes to my heritage, nationality and the realisation of how important community and culture is each and every person not just in Ireland but around the world, it has given me a positive outlook on the importance of the place you come from and has showed me the true meaning of being part of a great story, your own country.

This experience has thought me many things, for example patience, the change of language and surroundings was a big leap from my previous school of one thousand students to a rural number, this new environment was very different at first but through patience I began to see the results of the hard work I put into Irish and embracing the island life.

The transfer from one thousand students was a significant change in my education and opened my eyes to the different environment each school has to itself. The substantial change in the number of students around me to a very Small group taught me that by being positive and open to everyone around you it creates the best positive environment to match with the very personal level of education. This gave me a new impression and perspective on the effect environment and people have on your education, this was very positive as I feel | gained an understanding and more of a rounded view on self-development as well as academic as it showed me that you need to be happy and comfortable in your education to truly benefit and succeed in school.

Another positive impression and experience I will never forget is when learned what is true sense of community and togetherness, of course I had an idea of what community meant but I did not truly grasp the feeling until started to attend the school. From the start I was immediately taken aback, in awe and impressed with the maturity all of my fellow students, it was clear they all understood that everyone was going to be in a small intense environment. Every student from first year to sixth year knew a choice had to be made, that was to get on with and respect everyone around you, this really left me with a positive and an invaluable lesson as it showed me that by coming together and recognising we are all in the same boat we can all grow together and respect one another because of the understanding of the unique situation we all had as one.

This experience has granted me priceless lessons about life and striving to achieve your goals in no matter what situation. It has given me a new perspective on education and influenced me as a person mentally and socially, it has given me the most positive impression than any other major life experience I have ever had and will truly be with me for the rest of my life, only gain and keep on gaining while attending on.

I will take away priceless memories and stories that will leave a permanent positive impression on me for years to come.’

Student Guest Blogger

Age 16

Aran Islands

So could you do it? Something to think about!

The post Island People – Considering a life on the Aran Islands appeared first on Doolin Ferry.

Dun Aonghasa, which has been given the description as “the most magnificent barbaric monument in Europe” stands at the edge of a 100 metre high cliff on the largest of the Aran Islands, Inis Mór. This amazing site is over 300o years old!

It’s located just over 7 km from Kilrónan so many tourists cycle from there, getting the full experience of the Island and discovering many sites along the way. You may be interested in our article about What to do on Inis Mor or How to Get Around.

Dun Aonghasa offers a truly spectacular view and is the most famous of several prehistoric forts on the Aran Islands. The “Fort of Aonghas” is named after a pre-Christian god in Irish mythology, or the mythical king, Aonghus mac Úmhór, believed to be dating back to the Iron Age. A very mysterious ruin, nobody is quite sure why it was built.

The site is very intriguing. There are three main enclosing walls dividing the fort into an inner, middle and outer enclosure; a fourth wall gave added protection along the West Side. You can read an interesting and detailed article from Heritage Ireland all about Dun Aengus. When you arrive there you have to take a short hike up rising ground which is rough and natural rock. So we suggest to come prepared with boots or strong walking shoes. After you reach the top and the main fort area you will then see the cliffs. There is no fence or barrier at the edge of the 87-metre drop, so mind your step.

Is there a fee to visit Dun Aengus?

• Adults €5
• Group/ Seniors €4
• Students/ Children €3  (children under 12 are free)
• Family €13 (2 adults + children under 16)

Why not check out this wonderful and unusual site for yourself? Booking online is simple, book your trip to Inis Mor and download your Map.

The post Dun Aonghasa appeared first on Doolin Ferry.